San Salvador Island is one of over 700 islands in some of the most beautiful water in the world. San Salvador is similar to many of the other islands. The language of the Bahamas is English, with a lovely island accent. The people are receptive to their scholarly visitors and often eager to help. We must remember, of course, to be respectful of the cultural differences, despite our many similarities.

San Salvador is unique with respect to its history and ecology. San Salvador is the site of Columbus' first landfall in 1492. The harbor has remained largely unspoiled. The beaches are composed of calcareous sands and is associated with nearby sea cliffs, arches, and stacks. The interior part of San Salvador is made up of interconnecting lakes of varying (but generally quite high) salinity. There is only one major perimeter road. The largest community is Cockburn Town (pronounced - CO burn town). This is the center of activity on the island and is home of the government offices. In the southern section of the island, a company called "Columbus Landing" initiated development by creating many roads. The company failed, leaving a network of roads that provide access to several inland lakes and southern beaches. One such area is close to a castle once inhabited by a pirate called Watling. We will visit Watling's castle and some other historic sites. The waters are warm, blue, and have tropical reefs. The reefs in San Salvador are inhabited by a remarkable diversity of invertebrates and fishes... aided by the minimal development around the island.